📖 Western Vantage — September 11, 2025
Reflection, Respect, and the Outdoors
🇺🇸 A Day of Remembrance
Today marks 24 years since September 11th, 2001 — a day that changed the world and left an indelible mark on our country. We remember those who lost their lives, the families forever changed, and the heroes who stepped forward when everything was dark.
Yesterday also brought news of Charlie Kirk’s passing. Politics aside, moments like this remind us how short life is. Loss is loss, and it cuts deep no matter who you are. The outdoors has always been a place to process grief and find perspective. A mountain sunrise or a quiet walk through the timber can’t erase tragedy, but it has a way of helping us carry it.
Today, we pause. We remember. And we keep moving forward — grounded in faith, family, and the land under our boots.
🦌 Tag Tracker
Montana – Check out Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks for general deer & elk regulations. Huntin' Fool+3Montana FWP+3Montana FWP+3
Wyoming – Preference points for elk, deer, antelope, etc. are handled via WGFD. They’re crucial if you plan to draw tags in tough units. Wyoming Game and Fish Department+2GOHUNT+2
🐺 Predator Watch
Coyote calling is starting to pick up across the West as harvest comes in and fields open up. A few tips for early fall:
Mornings & evenings are prime — temps are dropping and coyotes are active.
Mix distress and pup calls — they’re protective this time of year.
Be patient — with crops still standing in places, expect them to circle tight cover before committing.
Gear worth a look: the Lucky Duck Revolt e-caller. Loud, crisp, and remote-controlled with 100+ sounds. It’s a favorite for wide-open country.
🎒 Gear Drop
Stone Glacier Avail 2200 Pack – One of the best crossover day packs. Carries your kit comfortably while staying light enough for travel.
Havalon Piranta Knife – Still the go-to for lightweight precision. Blades swap in seconds, which makes breaking down game quick and clean.
Sitka Ambient Jacket – Perfect for chilly September mornings when you’re glassing ridgelines. Packs down small but keeps you warm.
🌲 Western Wisdom
Nature doesn’t play favorites. It doesn’t ask about politics, paychecks, or problems. It just keeps showing up — steady, unchanging, and raw. That’s why hunters, anglers, and hikers alike return to it when life feels heavy.
The lesson is simple: storms will come, but the mountains don’t move. Anchor yourself to what’s steady.
🎯 Closing Thoughts
September 11th reminds us how fragile life is. Charlie Kirk’s passing yesterday underscores it again: tomorrow isn’t promised.
So call your kids. Hug your wife. Take the morning to scout that ridge you’ve been putting off. Breathe deep, be grateful, and live like it matters — because it does.
Stay sharp,
The Western Vantage Team